Regional training: Puppet Construction & Manipulation

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS

Dates: 28 October to 7 November 2025

Location: Bamako (Mali) & online

Organiser: UNIMA – Mali

In collaboration with: UNIMA International with its ‘Africa’ and ‘Professional Training and Research’ Commissions, UNIMA South Africa, UNIMA Kenya

With the support of: UNIMA International, UNESCO, PESP

As part of the project: Pro-Vocation: Roots & Wings

Trainer: Céline Pagniez (Belgium) – Puppeteer, educator and director

Working language: French

Number of participants: 20 (in person and remote)

Application deadline: 15 September 2025

General framework

This training course is part of the Pro-Vocation: Roots & Wings project, initiated by UNIMA International with the support of UNESCO, in collaboration with UNIMA – Mali, UNIMA South Africa and UNIMA Kenya. The project aims to strengthen the professional capacities of African puppeteers and stimulate the creation of innovative forms in the field of contemporary puppetry.

The workshop will be hosted in Bamako, in conjunction with the ‘Rendez-vous chez nous’ festival, a flagship event for street arts and performing arts in West Africa, organised by the Nama company. This festival offers young creators a unique space for expression and visibility, both regionally and internationally.

Educational objectives

• Train participants in puppet-making techniques (design, materials, assembly, finishing touches)
• Introduce participants to stage manipulation techniques and puppet interpretation
• Transmit craft and artistic know-how, combining African traditions and contemporary practices
• Promote the creative autonomy of young artists
• Encourage the creation of original works related to current social and environmental issues
• Strengthen regional ties and cooperation between African artists

Training content

• Manufacturing: basic techniques (papier mâché, foam, textiles, wood, mixed assembly, etc.)
• Handling: discovery of body language, rhythm, breathing, gaze, intention
• Visual narration: imagining and constructing a short performance using the puppets created
• Role-playing: possible public presentation during an event at the Rendez-vous chez nous festival

Target audience

Artists based in French-speaking countries of Africa

• Professional puppeteers
• Professional artists or trainees in the fields of theatre, circus and visual arts
• Enthusiastic amateurs who already have artistic experience and wish to improve their skills

Trainer profile

Céline Pagniez is a Belgian puppeteer, director and teacher. She has been involved in projects combining puppetry, object theatre and training for over 20 years. She is regularly invited to train young artists in Africa, Europe and Latin America. Her work emphasises a sensitive approach, rooted in craftsmanship and physical expression.

Application procedure

Applications must be submitted via the online form:

https://framaforms.org/pro-vocation-roots-wing-marionnettes-en-mouvement-fabrication-manipulation-et-mise-en-scene

Documents to be provided in the form:

• A short artistic biography (5 to 10 lines)
• A cover letter explaining your interest in this training programme
• Visuals (photos, videos or sketches) of previous artistic work

Application deadline: 15 September 2025 at midnight (Bamako time)

Contact for further information: rdv.bamako@gmail.com

Mobility support: Assistance (transport, accommodation, per diem) may be granted to participants residing outside Bamako and Mali.

More information to come on the UNIMA International website: www.unima.org